Backup: Salcedo, Kubitza, Caratini. There are no prospects in our system who project as starting third basemen. But we have three who project as backup/platoon type players. One is a switch hitter, one a righty, one a lefty. So some platoon possibilities exist. Salcedo has the biggest power potential of the three. He got off to a strong start in Mississippi, but tailed off badly. I expect him to repeat the level in 2014. Kubitza has always had a patient approach at the plate, and added some power this year. Caratini raked with Danville, but his defensive position remains uncertain.

Fringe: Leonard. Big Joe has a very fine glove but the bat hasn't developed. He will repeat in AAA next year. It will be a critical year for him. Either the hitting improves and he goes on to a major league career, or he will turn into organizational filler for the Braves or some other franchise.

Overview: We have Chris Johnson under contractual control for three more years. The arbitration process tends to overvalue players like him who pile up the counting stats and don't bring much defense to the table. Looking at the way the Braves are constructed, it appears that the team will be investing big contracts over the next few years at first, left, right and eventually short. Maybe catcher too. This means they will be looking for ways to save money at the other positions. If opportunities come to move the current incumbents at third, second and center during the next couple years, I think the Braves will be very open to exploring what is out there.